AFL Suspends Izak Rankine Over Homophobic Slur
Adelaide Crows star Izak Rankine has been suspended for four games after using what the AFL described as a “highly offensive” homophobic slur during last weekend’s clash with Collingwood. The incident took place in the final quarter of the Crows’ win, and it was quickly picked up and investigated by the league’s integrity unit.
The AFL announced that Rankine’s actions were a clear breach of its code of conduct, stressing that stamping out vilification remains one of the league’s most important priorities. In its statement, the AFL said the language used was offensive, hurtful, and unacceptable — not only to the player it was directed at, but to the broader LGBTQI+ community and allies who follow the game.
After considering submissions from both Adelaide and Rankine, including what were described as compelling medical factors, the AFL settled on a four-match suspension. Initially, a five-game ban had been proposed, but the Crows argued for leniency, presenting evidence around Rankine’s welfare. The final decision means he will miss the last round of the season and most of the finals campaign. His only chance to return would be if Adelaide were to lose their first final but still make it all the way to the grand final.
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As part of the sanction, Rankine has also been ordered to complete additional Pride in Sport education. The league emphasized that punishment alone is not enough, and that education remains critical in changing player behavior and ensuring football is safe and inclusive for everyone.
Rankine, for his part, admitted to the slur and immediately expressed regret. He phoned the Collingwood player on Sunday to apologise personally and has since issued a public statement, saying he was very sorry and acknowledging that the word he used has no place in football or in the wider community. “It was a mistake,” he said, adding that it does not reflect his values or those of the Adelaide Football Club. He also committed to learning from the incident and becoming better through education.
Within the Crows camp, teammates and coaches have echoed the AFL’s disappointment but also noted that Rankine is remorseful and aware of the harm caused. CEO Tim Silvers said the club stands firmly for respect and inclusivity, calling the language unacceptable, while also pledging to support Rankine as he works through this setback.
The AFL’s general counsel Stephen Meade stressed that homophobia has no place in the sport, pointing out that one such incident is already too many. He acknowledged that members of the LGBTQI+ community would have been hurt by the remark and reiterated the league’s commitment to eliminating vilification from the game.
So, the outcome here is significant — not just because a star player will miss finals, but because it sends a strong message. The AFL has made it clear that while mistakes may happen, language that demeans or excludes others will always carry serious consequences. Football, like the wider community, is still working on creating safe and inclusive spaces, and this suspension is being viewed as part of that broader effort.
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